Lowest Priced Flights to San Diego on Alaska Airlines starting at $59*

San Diego is a sun-soaked Southern California city known for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and some of the best tacos you'll find in the United States. Often called “America’s Finest City,” San Diego blends outdoor adventure with urban sophistication. From the historic Gaslamp Quarter to the scenic cliffs of La Jolla, there's a little something for everyone in San Diego. Few cities balance coastal charm and cultural depth quite like San Diego. Come discover it for yourself

Things to do in San Diego

• Relax on the sandy shores of Coronado Beach, Mission Beach, or Pacific Beach.
• Visit the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, home to thousands of rare and endangered animals.
• Stroll through Balboa Park, a cultural oasis with museums, gardens, and Spanish-inspired architecture.
• Explore the Gaslamp Quarter’s lively nightlife, dining, and historic charm.
• Go tide pooling or kayaking in the sea caves of La Jolla.
• Tour the USS Midway Museum and learn about San Diego’s naval history on a real aircraft carrier.

Best time to travel to San Diego

San Diego is a year-round destination with mild weather, but the best times to visit are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, crowds are lighter, and hotel prices are more affordable. Summer brings vibrant beach scenes and festivals, while winter offers a quieter coastal escape with plenty of sunshine.

Getting from SAN to San Diego and nearby areas

San Diego International Airport sits just about three miles north of downtown, making it one of the most conveniently located major airports in the country. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available at the Transportation Plazas across from Terminals 1 and 2, and typically reach downtown in 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic, with taxi fares running roughly $24 to $30. If you ride with Lyft, you can earn Atmos Rewards points on every trip—2 points per $1 on standard rides and 3 points per $1 on airport and premium rides—when you link your Atmos Rewards and Lyft accounts and select Atmos as your active rewards partner. For budget-conscious travelers, MTS Route 992 runs frequently between the airport and downtown, connecting to the Santa Fe Depot for Amtrak, COASTER, and trolley service. The free San Diego Flyer electric shuttle links both terminals with the Old Town Transit Center, while rental cars are served by free 24/7 shuttles to the Rental Car Center. Shared and private shuttle vans round out the options, making it easy to reach destinations across the region, from La Jolla and Coronado to Del Mar and Carlsbad.

Flying into San Diego International Airport (SAN)

View airport information for the San Diego International Airport (SAN)

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